Jelly Rolls

2.5" x 42"~40 strips$30-$45

What is a Jelly Roll?

Jelly rolls are pre-cut fabric strips measuring 2.5 inches wide by the width of fabric (approximately 42 inches). Each roll typically contains around 40 strips from a single fabric collection, giving you a coordinated palette without the guesswork of selecting individual yardage.

Originally trademarked by Moda Fabrics, the term "jelly roll" has become the generic name for this strip format across all manufacturers. The strips are rolled together and secured with a ribbon, creating the distinctive pinwheel shape that makes them instantly recognizable on store shelves.

Jelly rolls are among the most versatile pre-cuts because the 2.5-inch width is the foundation of countless strip-piecing techniques. From simple strip quilts to complex bargello designs, these strips eliminate the most tedious part of quilting: cutting dozens of identical strips from yardage.

Best Quilt Patterns

Jelly Roll Race

Beginner

Sew all 40 strips end-to-end, then fold and sew lengthwise repeatedly to create a large quilt top in under an hour.

Strip Bargello

Intermediate

Sew strips into a tube, slice at varying widths, and offset to create a flowing wave design.

1600 Quilt

Beginner

A variation of the jelly roll race using 1600 inches of sewn strips to produce a quick throw-size quilt.

Tips for Working with Jelly Rolls

  • Press strips flat before sewing — the fold from rolling can cause inaccuracy.
  • Use a scant 1/4" seam allowance to preserve the finished 2" strip width.
  • Starch lightly before cutting sub-units to prevent bias stretch on crosswise-cut strips.
  • Save selvage ends for string quilting or scrap projects rather than trimming before you start.
  • Chain-piece strips to save thread and maintain consistent seam allowances.
  • Store unused strips flat, not re-rolled, to minimize creasing.

Popular Brands

Moda (Jelly Roll)Robert Kaufman (Roll-Up)Riley Blake (Rolie Polie)Windham Fabrics (Jelly Roll)FreeSpirit (Design Roll)

Also Known As

Roll-Up, Rolie Polie, Design Roll, Strip Roll, 2.5" Strip Set

Compatible Quilt Blocks

Rail FenceLog CabinNine PatchIrish ChainCourthouse Steps

Quick Specs

Dimensions
2.5" x 42"
Typical Count
~40 strips
Equivalent Yardage
~2.75 yards
Price Range
$30-$45
Best For
Strip quilts, bargello patterns, jelly roll races, and binding strips

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